James 2:9

Authorized King James Version

But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
εἰ
if
if, whether, that, etc
#2
δὲ
But
but, and, etc
#3
προσωποληπτεῖτε,
ye have respect to persons
to favor an individual, i.e., show partiality
#4
ἁμαρτίαν
sin
a sin (properly abstract)
#5
ἐργάζεσθε
ye commit
to toil (as a task, occupation, etc.), (by implication) effect, be engaged in or with, etc
#6
ἐλεγχόμενοι
and are convinced
to confute, admonish
#7
ὑπὸ
of
under, i.e., (with the genitive case) of place (beneath), or with verbs (the agency or means, through); (with the accusative case) of place (whither (
#8
τοῦ
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
νόμου
the law
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
#10
ὡς
as
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
#11
παραβάται
transgressors
a violator

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to James. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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